Education and Early Childhood Development
October 5, 2016

Celebrating Those Dedicated to Student Success

Provincial Government Recognizes World Teachers' Day

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is recognizing World Teachers' Day today (Wednesday, October 5) to help celebrate the dedication of teachers and educators. World Teachers' Day was initiated by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) in 1994.

"As a government, we recognize the vital role teachers play in shaping our future generations. I would like to thank all teachers who devote so much of their time to the development and growth of our children. The influence teachers have on young people is second only to the influence of their parents. Therefore, today we celebrate our teachers and express our gratitude for all that they do."
- The Honourable Dale Kirby, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

UNESCO has designated this year's theme to be Valuing Teachers, Improving their Status, and is asking people from around the world to recognize teachers on social media by using #WorldTeachersDay.

"There are so many people who can point to a teacher and share incredible stories of how a teacher influenced them at key points in their lives. I encourage everyone in our communities to take the time to show your appreciation to a teacher that inspires you or has made a positive impact on your life."
- Minister Kirby

There are over 5,600 teachers in Newfoundland and Labrador that work in various roles, such as in classrooms and administrative functions, in schools and both of the school districts.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is recognizing October 5 as World Teachers' Day, a day to celebrate the important role teachers and educators play in the lives of students.
• World Teachers' Day was initiated by the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) in 1994 and has designated Valuing Teachers, Improving their Status as the theme this year.
• UNESCO is encouraging everyone to use #WorldTeachersDay to help celebrate teachers around the world.
• In Newfoundland and Labrador, there are over 5,600 teachers working in classroom settings and administrative roles in both schools and the school districts.

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Media contact:

Lauren Wiseman Director of Communications Department of Education and Early Childhood Development 709-729-0048, 691-7668 laurenwiseman@gov.nl.ca

2016 10 05            9:45 a.m.